The (Evil) Empire State: NY Vetoes MMA Again

Living in New York State has its advantages. Nice weather, 7-11s and sanctioned mixed martial arts are not among them.

Despite an encouraging hitchhiking on a state budget proposal, the state’s Assembly voted to remove the legalization of MMA from the plan Monday. Assemblyman Steven Englebright told the New York Daily News that “voices” in the Democratic party had serious objections. The meeting was interrupted briefly when members became confused and frightened by passing traffic and electricity.

It is not a bright time for the political aspirations of MMA. In addition to New York’s unraveling, Vancouver drummed up impolite press for a scene over the weekend in which Adam Santos continued striking Neil Menard after the referee called a stop to the fight: Menard’s trainer, Marcus Hicks, stormed the ring and nearly started a scene worthy of CBS. In October, Germany will be hosting some kind of summit titled, “When Sport is Close to Murder.” At least they’re coming in with open minds.

Taken independently, these are relatively minor issues. While New York would be a tremendous coup for the sport in light of the hostility the state has displayed in the past, it’s gotten this far without it; no country is taking their policy cues from Germany. But these are still high-profile condemnations that could influence the direction of other lawmakers. Dana White is fond of saying that affection for the sport is contagious. Unfortunately, so is prejudice.